Addressing the parliament on the ongoing union budget session, Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman announced a sustained focus on the development of Jammu Kashmir, Ladakh, and the Northeast in her recent budget statement.
Speaking on the proposed budget, Nirmala Sitharaman, Finance Minister of India said, “The government has plans to build digital public infrastructure for agriculture as an open-source, interoperable public good. This will help farmers access relevant information and market intelligence, and support the growth of the agritech industry.”
“A cluster-based and value-chain approach will be adopted through public-private partnerships and a comprehensive Atmanirbhar Clean Plant program will be launched to boost the availability of disease-free planting material for high-value horticultural crops,” she added.
The government also plans to make India a global hub for millet, which is a source of nutrition and food security for farmers.
Continuing to the announcement, Finance Minister said, “Agricultural credit target of Rs 20 lakh crore will be increased with a focus on animal husbandry, dairy, and fisheries. A new sub-scheme for offshore fishing will be launched with a targeted investment of Rs 6000 crore. The government is promoting a cooperative-based economic development model and will set up massive decentralized storage capacity and multipurpose cooperative societies in uncovered panchayats and villages.”
“The government further announced its plan to establish 157 brand-new nursing colleges, launch a mission to eliminate sickle cell anemia, and encourage investment in research and development in pharmaceuticals and medical devices,” she added.
Further adding to the announcement, FM said, “Teachers’ training will be re-envisioned through innovative methods and the District Institute of Education and Training will be developed as a vibrant institute of excellence.”